Matt Martin gives heartfelt gift to NY Islanders' rookie Matthew Schaefer

In June 2025, Matt Martin and his wife, Sydney, welcomed twin boys to the world. A few months later, the Martins decided to add one more to their family of six, taking in NY Islanders' rookie Matthew Schaefer.

We've all seen the videos of Schaefer playing with Martin's two daughters, along with photos of him alongside Boomer Esiason, Martin's father-in-law. At Christmas time, the Martins included Schaefer in the tradition of exchanging gifts, with Martin presenting Schaefer with a new watch including a heartfelt message on the back.

Martin gifts Scaefer a watch

"It's a Pig (Piguet) watch, and Marty waited two years on a wait list to get it," Schaefer said on the Empty Netters podcast. "He was like, 'I really wanted to get this for you.' It was right around Breast Cancer Awareness Month when he was getting it. He's like, 'I thought it was the perfect fit for you.' He got it engraved on the back. It's a ladybug because I saw a lot of ladybugs when my mom passed. And then he put, 'love you,' in my mom's writing."

Schaefer losing his mother at 16 was one of the stories following him leading up to the 2025 NHL Draft. He has emphasized the importance of family, and living with the Martins has made it a home away from home.

For those who haven't listened to the episode, it's definitely worth the listen. Schaefer spends an extended period talking about Martin, the relationship they have, and the bond they've built in a short period of time.

On the ice, Martin has been known for his hitting, fighting, and toughness, but now that he's moved to the front office, we're seeing his compassionate side.